James Robert Olmstead
ONEONTA _ James Robert Olmstead, 41, passed away suddenly due to health complications on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012.
He was born on Sept. 25, 1970, the son of James Frederick and Barbara Elaine (Baldwin) Olmstead of Oneonta.
Never content with being still, Jim was always on the go. Vivacious and outgoing, he made friends with whoever crossed his path.
In his early years, Jim was involved in the Oneonta Little League, which he played until Babe Ruth Baseball. Bowling was his next passion, which he did for many years and many trophies as a child.
He loved music and followed many bands throughout the years, especially the Grateful Dead and Phish. His most loved passion was cooking. Most of his jobs involved cooking, but his most memorable and fulfilling job was at Gabriella's in the Square in Cooperstown. He met many celebrities and took great pride in the recipes that he created there.
Jim loved the great outdoors and in later years did a lot of hiking and mountain biking. Recently his bike had become his legs due to injuries he sustained a few years ago. His truly last trip of peace and freedom was the summer of 2011, when he traveled on his motorcycle on the east coast to the Florida Keys.
Jim is survived by his parents; his sisters, Tracy and Shelly; his one and only nephew, Gage Olmstead; and Jim's cat, China.
At the request of the family, there will be no public calling hours or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The China Cat Sunshine Project, which can be found by going online to: http://www.gofundme.com/11a9yc.
Jim, may you be at peace and your pain finally be over, may you be up with the spirit in the sky. Forever, your family!
To light a candle or to send an online condolence to the family, please visit the website at www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
